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Old Sep 11, 2006 | 08:46 AM
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Default GS400 Drivebelt

Hi Guys!

I have a 1999 GS400 and I want to check the drivebelt. I know you need to turn the tensioner clockwise but do you need special tools for it?
Thanks in advance

Alex
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Old Sep 11, 2006 | 11:19 AM
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I believe it's a 14mm, but not sure. you just use a wrench or ratchet and turn the bolt on end of tensioner. you turn the bolt/tensioner counter clockwise. the bolt has reverse threads so it won't come loose when you're releasing tension on belt.
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Old Sep 11, 2006 | 11:59 AM
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Thanks chuckb!

What do you figure those belts to be good for? 50,000-100,000 miles?
Thanks again chuckb

Alex
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Old Sep 11, 2006 | 05:42 PM
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it's an easy change for $30, I'd do it around 50K. technically, if you don't see cracks on it and it's not squeaking, it should be ok. there's also a gauge on the tensioner with a range in it that tells you if the belt is stretched out or not.
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Old Sep 12, 2006 | 06:52 AM
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Thanks chuckb, you seem to know your Lexi or Lexusi. Tell me, in order to change the rear rotor do you have to take the caliper off completely or can you take one set of bolts off and swing the caliper upwards or downwards?
Thanks again

Alex
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Old Sep 12, 2006 | 07:59 PM
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I would recomment putting out $10 more to get the Goodyear Gatorback drive belt instead of OEM. The gatorback belt is suppose to run quieter, squeek less, and resist crack better because of its design. Many people here have these and I have not heard a single complaint. It's worth the $40 for the belt. you can get it at autozone.
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Old Sep 13, 2006 | 04:56 PM
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Originally Posted by lex4
Thanks chuckb, you seem to know your Lexi or Lexusi. Tell me, in order to change the rear rotor do you have to take the caliper off completely or can you take one set of bolts off and swing the caliper upwards or downwards?
Thanks again

Alex
I've not done the brakes on my GS yet, but I'm pretty sure the caliper would need to be completely removed to remove the rotor.
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Old Sep 13, 2006 | 06:48 PM
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Brake caliper also Caliper carrier must be removed before you'll be able to get rotor off
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Old Sep 15, 2006 | 10:08 AM
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Thanks Guys!

Toyota(Lexus) brakes as good as anybodys or is there a better product?
Thanks

Alex
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Old Sep 22, 2006 | 06:42 AM
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Nobody seems to have an opinion on brake quality, therefore I gather that Toyota products are the best.
Thanks

Alex
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Old Sep 22, 2006 | 10:10 AM
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Originally Posted by chuckb
it's an easy change for $30, I'd do it around 50K. technically, if you don't see cracks on it and it's not squeaking, it should be ok. there's also a gauge on the tensioner with a range in it that tells you if the belt is stretched out or not.
ours lasted only 60k mi. it started squealing in cold/wet weather last winter. when it was replaced it was cracked on the ribs and was noticeably longer than the new oem belt... damn i wish i knew the goodyear belt existed then
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Old Oct 10, 2006 | 12:24 PM
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Anybody have experience with replacing a power steering unit?

Alex
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Old Oct 10, 2006 | 07:39 PM
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Originally Posted by lex4
Anybody have experience with replacing a power steering unit?

Alex
Power steering pump?
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Old Oct 11, 2006 | 06:37 AM
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Originally Posted by lex4
Thanks Guys!

Toyota(Lexus) brakes as good as anybodys or is there a better product?
Thanks

Alex

I would stick with OEM or brembo etc.. I put some cheap Napa brakes on my ES and i regret it everyday. They squeak like hell and i hate it..GL

Tony
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Old Oct 23, 2006 | 09:01 AM
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Default Corrosion spots

Hi Guys!

What do you guys do for nicks that have corrosion spots in it?
Are there kits available on the market that deal with small spots or do you have to take it to a body shop?
Body shops would not bother with such small money makers?
Any info on this subject would be gladly appreciated.
Thanks

Alex
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